Lisburn City Council recently hosted a reception for Down Royal Racecourse, in recognition of its contribution to the local tourism industry over the past ten years.

This prestigious local attraction brings national and international racing enthusiasts and tourists together.

Down Royal Racecourse has achieved success in the last 10 years with the growth of ever-popular events such as the upcoming NI Festival of Racing and the Summer Festival of Racing. As a result of its continued growth, this local tourist attraction was able to improve its facilities to include new grandstands, corporate facilities and entrance turnstiles, which were unveiled in June.

Down Royal Racecourse has won numerous awards and continues to draw big crowds to the venue for each race meeting its holds. The racecourse continues to play its part in bringing substantial economic and tourism benefits to the Lisburn area through hospitality and visitors staying in the City area.

Councillor Jenny Palmer, Chairman of the Council's Economic Development Committee, said: "As a partner organisation Lisburn City Council would like to recognise the significant economic importance this major attraction is to the Lisburn area as a result of the high-profile events that it hosts throughout the year. The Council, looks forward to a continuing relationship with Down Royal over the next decade and hopes the facility continues to grow and further enhance its position in the local tourism industry and in the international racing sector.